I would love some advice from anyone who is currently teaching in China or has done so in the past. I am finding information on obtaining a visa quite difficult - I have been told I should just get a torist visa and once I have found a job apply for a work visa. The problem with this is that when applying for a tourist visa you need to show a complete itinary including return flight and ALL hotel details. Also I would appreciate any advice/suggestions on where to go in China. I am 32 years old (male) and recently completed the 4 part study at home TEFL course - I don't have any direct teaching experience but have worked with children on a volunteer basis and have done presenations/training as part of my job (in the media industry).I am looking to work in China for 6 months to 12 months.

If you have been following the news you will have seen that China is in the process of throwing out 1,000s of TEFL teachers, and making it extremely difficult for new ones to get visas.- S

I offer any information or advice 'as is' and hope that it has been of help. I am not an admin of this board, and my postings do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the board management.____________________Thailand TESOL forum

as the previous poster has said many foreigners, teachers etc. have been booted out. Many teachers' visas are about teaching. So as a result of the Olympic Games and the fact that many teaching contracts have ended, the Chinese Government are asking those who wish to extend certain visas to do so at their home country. Security measure. Understandably so.

I note that you are not in an urgent hurry to be here. To work here as a teacher here you need a 'Z' visa, which entails all the credentials that you have but also a contract with a reputable school here. Et cetera. pm me and I might be able to help more...

If you wait until October you should have no issues getting a visa, It only changed for the Olympics it is already starting to change back.

However it would be best to come over with a job already in place that way the school can process a Z visa for you before you even leave. If you come across a school or agency who is not willing to do this then do not work with them.